Obesity among children still a problem, Oak Ridge mothers say

Some Oak Ridge mothers agree that childhood obesity is a national issue and Oak Ridge, could share that problem.

by Beverly Majors

Some Oak Ridge mothers agree that childhood obesity is a national issue and Oak Ridge, could share that problem.

“I’m not sure if Oak Ridge has an obesity problem or not or how we compare with other cities,” said Trina Baughn. “We do seem to have a large number of very active people who run, walk and bike quite regularly. We are very fortunate to have the amenities, such as our expansive greenways, riverfront and bike lanes which make it easier for our citizens to live a more healthy lifestyle.”

Nancy Holt said, “I believe it’s a problem nationally, when you can buy a bag of potato chips for $3 and a bag of apples for $7, and in this economy what are you going to choose?”

“I do believe that childhood obesity is a problem locally,” said Shannah Newman. “I have interaction with children of variant age groups and see a significant ratio are above average in weight.

“My children have always been given milk, water or low sugar juices up till the age of 8 or 9,” Newman said about sugary drinks. “At that point, I have allowed them to have soda if they chose. And to my surprise, many times they chose to drink water over soda.”

Holt, however, said, “I don’t keep soda pop in the house. I keep things like sugar-free Kool Aid and milk. I make them drink water.”

Baughn said she also limits sugary drinks.

“Milk, water and 100 percent natural juices are their primary choices. I’m very concerned that sodas greatly contribute to obesity and I therefore limit them in both my diet as well as my children’s.”

The Secret City mothers also were asked about posting calorie counts in vending machines and restaurants menus and the impact on whether the postings may lead to healthier choices.

Holt and Newman had similar remarks.

“I believe seeing the calories in black and white will make some people make better choices, but as far as children, I believe they just want something that’s going to taste good,” Holt said.

“I know for me personally, restaurants that offer a calorie label on their menus has definitely effected the choices I make,” Newman said. “Regarding children making different choices based on labels at restaurants, this probably would not make an impact with their choice of foods. As kids, all they care about is whether the foods taste good to them or not.”

Baughn, however, has her doubts.

“I doubt that posting calorie counts will have much of an impact since fast food restaurants have been posting and/or providing this information to the public for some time now and we don’t see any significant changes in the consumption levels of fast food. As for children, the responsibility to influence their dietary habits starts at home. Increased regulation within the free market will have minimal influence compared to that of parents who expose their children early on to healthier foods and drinks and limit sugar and fat.”